By: Antonio Jones
A mere 20 years ago, children used to play outside all day, riding bikes, playing sports and building forts. Masters of imaginary games, children of the past created their own form of play that didn’t require costly equipment or parental supervision. Children of the past moved… a lot, and their sensory world was nature based and simple
Children now rely on technology for the majority of their play, grossly limiting challenges to their creativity and imaginations, as well as limiting necessary challenges to their bodies to achieve optimal sensory and motor development.
Getting your children to start a healthy habit like running during childhood tends to flow over into adulthood. Active children are more likely to become active adults.
Physical benefits for kids that runs includes the following:
– Stronger immune system (Less prone to allergies, colds and cancer)
– Lower blood pressure and better cholesterol profile
– Lower risk of type – two diabetes
– A stronger bone structure
– Less likely to become overweight
– Legs will develop stronger and form more muscle
Running might also be the best way for kids to become a well-balanced and contributing member of society. It is an irreplaceable activity for young athletes to learn fundamental life skills, like teamwork, goal-setting and hard work.
My wife and I introduce running to our two daughters at a young age (Around 7 years) and it give great pleasure to do 5 km runs with them. In the beginning we just taught them how to run and how to enjoy the run. Allowing them to figure things out by themselves is an empowering experience.
However please take note that kids are still growing and should not run too much, can result into injury (Please consult professional advise and training plan before starting to run with your kids)
Below is some personal pictures from park runs as well as races we competed in.
